The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) states that about 1 in 4 U.S. adults have severe chronic joint pain due to arthritis. Arthritis is a conditions that affect the joints, tissues around the joint, and other connective tissues resulting in chronic pain. Arthritis means inflammation or swelling of one or more joints.

Although there are so many different types of arthritis, Some of the most common types include Osteoarthritis, Rheumatoid Arthritis, Gout, and Childhood arthritis.

Among the arthritis risk factors you cannot control are age, gender and genetics. But there are other risks you can control: modifiable risk factors. Here are some tips and guidance from the CDC, the National Institute for Occupational Safety and Health (NOSH) and the National Institutes of Health.

1. Weight: 

People who are overweight or obese are more prone to osteoarthritis of weight-bearing joints like the hips, knees and feet. Maintain a healthy weight by eating healthfully and remaining as physically active as possible (see “Weight control”).

2. Infection: 

See your health care provider right away if you experience joint swelling, warmth or redness, as it might be the sign of an infection.

3. Joint injuries:

Ask about special exercises to protect your joints from injury or overuse due to knee bending and repetitive stress, which can damage a joint and increase the risk of osteoarthritis. Occupation. Avoid sudden or sustained exposure to force, vibration, repetitive motion and awkward posture.

4. Smoking:

Smoking tobacco increases the risk for and can worsen rheumatoid arthritis. It can also make it harder to stay active and may cause other health problems.

What can you do?

The focus of arthritis treatment is to Reduce pain, Minimize joint damage, Improve or maintain function and quality of life.

Current therapies:

Therapies might include over-the-counter products like acetaminophen and other non steroidal anti-inflammatory drugs (NSAIDs). Check with your health provider before trying any new therapy, Prescription medicines may be required. Other methods may include tai chi, yoga, heating pads, cold or ice packs, hydrotherapy, stretching, foam rolling, massage, acupuncture and cognitive and behavioral therapy.

Weight control:

Losing weight can help with joint pain and arthritis. Healthy changes include:
• Proteins such as seafood, lean meats and poultry, eggs, legumes (beans and peas), soy products, nuts and seeds
• Fruits, vegetables, whole grains and fat-free or low-fat dairy products
• Foods low in sugars, sodium, saturated fats, trans fats and cholesterol
• Joint-friendly physical activity-ask what strength- building and low-impact aerobics exercises are best for you.

Take these steps on your path toward healthy joints for a lifetime.

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